QM File Extension

What is QM file?

QM files are associated with Qt Linguist, a translation software tool.

What kind of data QM files contain?

Files with QM extension store source text and its translation to target language. QM files store data in binary format for fast data access and search. QM files are used for distributing application translations into local languages.

Are QM files human-readable?

Qt Linguist tool allows users to create application translations and localizations. Because QM is a compiled binary file and not a plain text file, it is not possible to read its contents directly even with Qt Linguist.

How can QM files be viewed using Qt Linguist?

In order to open a QM file with Qt Linguist, it is necessary to convert it to TS. There a many tools that allow such conversion, most of them are a command line utilities. Created TS can be opened directly with Qt Linguist. TS files are editable – user can translate the text and convert the file back to QM. This process allows users to generate language packages for applications.

Programs which support QM file extension

The list that follows enumerates programs compatible with QM files, divided into 3 categories based on operating system on which they are available. QM files can be encountered on all system platforms, including mobile, yet there is no guarantee each will properly support such files.

Updated: 08/15/2022

How to open file with QM extension?

There can be multiple causes why you have problems with opening QM files on given system. Fortunately, most common problems with QM files can be solved without in-depth IT knowledge, and most importantly, in a matter of minutes. The following is a list of guidelines that will help you identify and solve file-related problems.

Step 1. Download and install Qt SDK

The most common reason for such problems is the lack of proper applications that supports QM files installed on the system. This issue can be addressed by downloading and installing Qt SDK or different compatible program, such as Nokia Qt SDK, VirtualBox, Jabbim. The full list of programs grouped by operating systems can be found above. The safest method of downloading Qt SDK installed is by going to developer’s website (Digia Oyj) and downloading the software using provided links.

Step 2. Update Qt SDK to the latest version

If the problems with opening QM files still occur even after installing Qt SDK, it is possible that you have an outdated version of the software. Check the developer’s website whether a newer version of Qt SDK is available. Sometimes software developers introduce new formats in place of that already supports along with newer versions of their applications. This can be one of the causes why QM files are not compatible with Qt SDK. The most recent version of Qt SDK is backward compatible and can handle file formats supported by older versions of the software.

Step 3. Set the default application to open QM files to Qt SDK

If the issue has not been solved in the previous step, you should associate QM files with latest version of Qt SDK you have installed on your device. The next step should pose no problems. The procedure is straightforward and largely system-independent

The procedure to change the default program in Windows

• Choose the Open with entry from the file menu accessed by right-mouse clicking on the QM file
• Next, select the Choose another app option and then using More apps open the list of available applications
• Finally select Look for another app on this PC, point to the folder where Qt SDK is installed, check the Always use this app to open QM files box and conform your selection by clicking OK button

The procedure to change the default program in Mac OS

• By clicking right mouse button on the selected QM file open the file menu and choose Information
• Find the Open with option – click the title if its hidden
• Select Qt SDK and click Change for all...
• A message window should appear informing that This change will be applied to all files with QM extension. By clicking Continue you confirm your selection.

Step 4. Ensure that the QM file is complete and free of errors

If you followed the instructions form the previous steps yet the issue is still not solved, you should verify the QM file in question. Being unable to access the file can be related to various issues.

1. The QM may be infected with malware – make sure to scan it with an antivirus tool.

If the QM is indeed infected, it is possible that the malware is blocking it from opening. Immediately scan the file using an antivirus tool or scan the whole system to ensure the whole system is safe. If the QM file is indeed infected follow the instructions below.

2. Ensure the file with QM extension is complete and error-free

If you obtained the problematic QM file from a third party, ask them to supply you with another copy. It is possible that the file has not been properly copied to a data storage and is incomplete and therefore cannot be opened. When downloading the file with QM extension from the internet an error may occurred resulting in incomplete file. Try downloading the file again.

3. Check if the user that you are logged as has administrative privileges.

Sometimes in order to access files user need to have administrative privileges. Log in using an administrative account and see If this solves the problem.

4. Check whether your system can handle Qt SDK

The operating systems may note enough free resources to run the application that support QM files. Close all running programs and try opening the QM file.

5. Ensure that you have the latest drivers and system updates and patches installed

Regularly updated system, drivers, and programs keep your computer secure. This may also prevent problems with Qt Compiled Translation Source Format files. It may be the case that the QM files work properly with updated software that addresses some system bugs.

Do you want to help?

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